Dugout Dish Baseball Recruiting Podcast powered by EMD Baseball

*Re-release of ep. 94* In this episode, we sit down with Boston College Head Coach Todd Interdonato. We talk about what he values in the recruiting process, how he and his staff communicate with potential recruits and their families, as well as how to become more self assured and confident in what you do and more. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting and development intel that could change your player's future. Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

The in-game bullpen is a common practice in youth and high school baseball — and one of the most damaging to a young pitcher's development. In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball breaks down exactly why throwing a scheduled bullpen session during a live game instead of at practice is putting unnecessary stress on your pitcher's arm and quietly holding him back. What you'll learn: What the in-game bullpen is and why it has become so widely used at the youth and high school level Why the intensity and effort level of a live game makes an in-game bullpen significantly harder than a practice session How the quick turnaround between pitches leaves no room for proper recovery Why the total pitch count always ends up higher than coaches and parents expect How the added stress and length of an in-game bullpen session impacts a young pitcher's long term arm health and development What players, coaches, and parents should be pushing for instead This episode is essential listening for any coach running a pitching program, any parent with a son on the mound, and any pitcher serious about protecting his arm and maximizing his development. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting and development intel that could change your player's future. Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

Every baseball family has questions about the recruiting process — and in this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball answers the ones we hear most. From understanding the difference between camps and showcases to knowing exactly what to put in your first email to a college coach, this episode covers the recruiting fundamentals every player and parent needs to know. What we answer: Camps vs. Showcases — what's the actual difference, and which one gives your player the best shot at being seen? The pros and cons of each and how to be strategic about where you invest your time and money Why academics play a bigger role in college baseball recruiting than most families realize The debate coaches won't always admit to — do metrics or in-game performance matter more? When is the right time to start attending exposure events based on your graduation year? What every recruiting email to a college coach needs to include to actually get a response. Whether you're just starting the process or deep in it, this FAQ episode gives you clear, honest answers to the questions every baseball family is asking right now. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting intel that could change your player's future. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

Act Like a College Baseball Player Before You Are One — What Being Recruitable Really Means The players who get recruited to play college baseball don't wait until they arrive on campus to start acting like college players — they do it years before anyone offers them. In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball breaks down exactly what that means and how you can apply it to every area of your game right now. What you'll learn: What the phrase "act like a college player before you are one" really means in practice How your approach in the weight room signals your recruitability to college coaches Why your practice habits matter as much as your game performance How preparation separates recruited players from overlooked ones What coaches are watching for in games beyond stats and tools How all of this connects to the bigger idea of being a recruitable player This episode is for every high school baseball player who wants to play at the next level — and every parent who wants to understand what coaches are really looking for. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting intel that could change your player's future. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

We've hit the halfway point of the 2026 college baseball season and the EMD Baseball crew is breaking it all down. In this episode of Dugout Dish, we give you our honest midseason report — the surprises, the disappointments, the players turning heads, and a preview of what could be the best weekend of college baseball so far this spring. What we cover: The teams and players who have exceeded expectations through the first half The biggest disappointments of the season — programs that haven't delivered How our preseason predictions are holding up halfway through A conference-by-conference look at the SEC, ACC, Big 10 and beyond What we're most excited to watch as the season heats up A full preview of this Easter weekend's Top 25 college baseball matchups Whether you're a college baseball fan, a high school player following the programs recruiting you, or a parent trying to get a feel for the college game — this episode gives you everything you need to know at the midseason mark. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss a beat. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

College baseball coaches evaluate more than just your player's tools — they're watching your family too. In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball breaks down the most common recruiting mistakes parents make and exactly how those mistakes can damage their son's chances of getting an offer. What you'll learn: Why parents must support the process without becoming the one being recruited How using the word "we" in conversations with coaches sends the wrong signal Why players — not parents — must handle all communication with coaching staffs How sideline behavior at games creates red flags for coaches watching your son The difference between a parent who helps their son get recruited and one who quietly hurts his chances The recruiting process is long and emotional — and it's easy for parents to cross a line without realizing it. This episode helps you stay on the right side of it. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

What does it take to build a program with 447 wins in 15 years — and what does that winning standard mean for the players being recruited into it? In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball sits down with St. John Fisher Head Coach Brandon Potter to break down his recruiting philosophy, what he looks for in players, and how he builds a culture that consistently wins. What you'll learn: Why Coach Potter prioritizes multi-sport athletes and what it signals about a recruit's athleticism and toughness The specific leadership qualities he evaluates during the recruiting process How he builds a player-led program where the staff genuinely invests in each athlete Why every recruit should visit a college practice or game before making a commitment What the speed and culture of college baseball actually looks like up close — and why it matters Whether you're a player trying to understand what coaches are evaluating or a parent trying to help your son find the right program fit, this conversation with Coach Potter is packed with insight you won't hear anywhere else. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting intel that could change your player's future. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

If you want to get recruited, you need to understand how college baseball coaches actually spend their time on the road. In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball breaks down the college baseball recruiting calendar — when coaches leave campus, where they go, and how they decide which events to attend. What you'll learn: The March 1 rule and what it means for off-campus recruiting Why coaches stay regional during the season and expand their search in the summer How staffs choose which camps, clinics, and showcases to prioritize Why having multiple coaches evaluate your player is a major advantage How to position your player to be seen by the right staff at the right time Understanding the coaching staff's schedule is one of the most overlooked edges in the recruiting process. This episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how it all works. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting intel that could change your player's future. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

College baseball recruiting doesn't have to feel overwhelming — but for most families, it does. In this episode of Dugout Dish, EMD Baseball breaks down the recruiting process from the inside so players and parents can replace anxiety with a clear, confident game plan. We cover the most common stress points families face — confusing timelines, expensive showcase schedules, and the pressure of campus visits — and explain exactly what to expect at every stage of the process. What you'll learn: Why recruiting timelines have slowed down and what that means for your player's development How to choose the right exposure events based on your graduation year The financial reality of showcases and how to be strategic with your investment What campus visits actually look like and when to expect them How to protect your family's mental health during a long, uncertain process Whether your player is a freshman just entering the process or a junior feeling the clock tick, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to navigate recruiting on your terms. New episodes of Dugout Dish drop every week. Subscribe so you never miss recruiting intel that could change your player's future. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

In this episode, we explore the importance of student-athlete agency in the recruiting process and how parents can support without taking control. We discuss why athletes need to be in the driver’s seat, actively owning their recruitment by hitting, throwing, pitching, lifting, emailing coaches, posting on social media, and engaging in every aspect of the process. We also break down the role of parents, showing how they can provide guidance, encouragement, and structure while allowing their child to lead. Whether you’re a high school athlete navigating college recruiting or a parent looking to help effectively, this episode offers actionable strategies to stay proactive, organized, and self-driven to maximize recruiting opportunities. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

In this episode, we break down the latest D1 college baseball data on run scoring, ERA, and run prevention — and what it means for the recruiting process. We discuss why coaches are prioritizing athletes at every position, players who can not only hit but also defend at an elite level. We also cover what it really takes to pitch at the Division 1 level — because velocity and stuff alone won't cut it. College baseball coaches want pitchers who can field their position, hold runners, and compete. College baseball is getting more athletic across the board, and we're using the data to break down exactly what recruits and their families need to know to navigate the college baseball recruiting process. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

In this episode, we break down the growing debate around transfer rules in college athletics and why many coaches and athletic departments believe the current NCAA transfer portal system needs reform. Over the past several months, frustration has been building across college sports as coaches and administrators deal with the reality of athletes transferring multiple times with immediate eligibility. Combined with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, the system has increasingly started to resemble free agency at the highest levels of college athletics. We discuss how the current transfer portal landscape has drifted from the original intent of transfer waivers and athlete mobility. Our proposed solution is a one-time transfer rule, where student-athletes can transfer once and play immediately, but would need to sit out a year of competition if they choose to transfer a second or third time. In the episode we also discuss: Why coaches across college sports are raising concerns about the current system How unlimited transfers impact roster stability and program development The role NIL money is playing in player movement Potential rule changes the NCAA could implement to restore balance How college sports might create a more sustainable transfer model moving forward If you're interested in the future of the college transfer portal, NIL in college sports, and the evolving landscape of NCAA athlete movement, this episode offers a thoughtful conversation on where things stand and what changes may be coming. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

In this episode, we sit down with former MLB infielder Kevin Smith for an in-depth conversation on elite infield defense, footwork, positioning, and baseball development. Since retiring from professional baseball, Kevin has launched Kali Gloves and built a strong presence on social media, where he teaches modern infield play and shares insights to help the next generation of players improve their defensive game. This episode dives deep into the value of defense in baseball and why infield play can be the key to getting — and staying — on the field. Kevin breaks down actionable infield drills and defensive training strategies that players at all levels can apply immediately. We cover: The importance of quality catch play and how proper throwing routines translate directly to game performance How to train “game throws” during warmups to improve arm strength, accuracy, and body control Pre-pitch positioning and first-step quickness to increase range How to move efficiently off the baseball to field more balls cleanly Why the traditional advice to “get in front of the ball” can be misleading — and how reading hops from the side can lead to better reactions and truer reads Whether you're a youth infielder, high school baseball player, college athlete, or coach, this episode is packed with practical defensive tips, infield mechanics, and baseball IQ insights that will help elevate your glove work and overall game. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

In this episode, we sit down and talk about the Quiet Period ending and the evaluation period starting on March 1st and dive into what players should be doing in preparation for the spring and summer. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

In this episode, we sit down with Knoxville Smokies player development coach Joe Curci to break down modern hitting development in Minor League Baseball. A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a degree in data science, Curci blends traditional baseball knowledge with cutting-edge technology to develop hitters in the Chicago Cubs minor league system. We dive deep into hitting mechanics, approach, timing, swing decisions, pitch recognition, and in-game adjustments. Coach Curci explains how today’s minor league players use advanced baseball technology like TrackMan and HitTrax to analyze swing data, pitch metrics, and performance trends. From understanding attack angle and bat speed to building a consistent pre-pitch process, this episode covers how data-driven player development is shaping the future of hitting. Whether you’re a baseball player, hitting coach, recruiter, or fan interested in baseball analytics, this conversation delivers actionable insights on improving swing decisions, being on time, making adjustments, and leveraging technology to maximize offensive performance. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

In this episode, we break down exactly what 2026 graduates committed to play college baseball should be doing before arriving on campus this fall. If you're a future freshman preparing for Division I, II, III, or JUCO baseball, this episode outlines a plan for the summer. We cover a detailed roadmap for pitchers, including innings management, pitch counts, summer ball decisions, strength and conditioning priorities, arm care routines, and how to communicate effectively with your college pitching coach. For position players, we discuss how to structure summer competition, maximize quality at-bats, improve defensive consistency, build strength in the weight room, and maintain overall health leading into fall baseball. We also emphasize the importance of consistent communication with your future college coaching staff, setting performance expectations, and preparing physically and mentally so you can show up to campus ready to compete from day one. If you're a 2026 commit looking to make an immediate impact in fall baseball, this episode gives you a complete summer preparation blueprint. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com Chapters

In this episode, we sit down with Monroe Community College Head Baseball Coach Dave Brust to discuss his coaching journey and the principles that guide his approach to teaching and player development. Coach Brust breaks down what he believes in as a coach, how he connects with his players, and why college coaching is far more layered than just teaching the fundamentals of the game. We dive into the importance of JUCO baseball within the college baseball landscape, what it takes to compete at a high level in junior college baseball, and how the JUCO route prepares players to successfully transition to four-year college programs. Coach Brust also shares insight on academics at the junior college level, explaining how JUCO programs can open doors for student-athletes by helping them earn strong GPAs and create more opportunities at the next level. We discuss the current state of college baseball, including transfer portal rules and how junior college players maintain year-round eligibility to be recruited or drafted. To wrap up, Coach Brust offers practical recruiting advice for families, highlighting what players and parents should consider during the recruiting process to find the right academic, athletic, and personal fit. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

In this episode, we break down the truth about baseball camps and showcases for the 2030 class and younger players. If you’re a parent or player wondering whether 12U, 13U, or 14U athletes should attend recruiting showcases right now, this episode is for you. We explain the current NCAA recruiting rules, who is actually allowed to attend showcases this time of year, and what college coaches can (and cannot) do when it comes to early recruiting. We also cover realistic college recruiting timelines and why most college baseball coaches are not focused on the 2030 class or younger prospects. Finally, we share our honest thoughts on early showcasing, the pros and cons of playing in recruiting events at a young age, and what we believe is the best long-term development plan for youth baseball players who want to play college baseball. If you’re trying to navigate youth baseball recruiting, travel ball decisions, and showcase strategy for middle school players, this episode will help you make smarter, more informed decisions. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

In this episode, we break down our annual Division I college baseball season preview with Jonathan Grosse, getting you ready for the 2026 college baseball season. We dive into the biggest storylines entering opening weekend, including major coaching changes across the SEC and ACC, where several programs will feature new—and first-time—head coaches. We also take a close look at mid-major college baseball programs that could break out this season and make a postseason run, before sharing our preseason College World Series picks, including who we think will reach Omaha and compete for the national championship in June. To wrap things up, we highlight must-watch games from Opening Weekend as the Division I college baseball season begins Friday, February 13. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com

*re-release from 1-20-25 In this episode, we talk about where high school players focus should be right now in January. Making the variety team should be your goal, however, we also talk about what to do if you don’t. Kali Gloves - www.kaligloves.com Diamond College Showcase Camps - www.diamondcollegeshowcase.com Team Match Sports - www.teammatchsports.com